Botanical Name: Euphorbia tirucalli
Common Names: Fire Sticks, Pencil Tree, Pencil Cactus, Milk Bush, African Milk Bush
Euphorbia tirucalli, commonly known as Fire Sticks or Pencil Tree, is a bold, architectural succulent prized for its smooth, pencil-thin branches that shift from green to vibrant shades of orange and red in bright light and cooler temperatures. Native to eastern and southern Africa, this striking plant is naturally adapted to warm, dry climates and well-draining soils. It forms an upright, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree and can reach a mature size of approximately 6–10 feet (1.8–3 m) tall and 4–8 feet (1.2–2.4 m) wide, though it remains much smaller when grown in containers, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor display.
Care and Cultivation:
Bright, indirect sunlight (more sun enhances color)
Well-draining cactus or succulent soil
Water sparingly; allow soil to dry between waterings
Moderate to fast growth with minimal maintenance
Hardiness and Cold Sensitivity:
Not frost tolerant
USDA zones 10a–12b
Protect from temperatures below 38°F (3°C)
Winter Dormancy and Health:
Growth slows during cooler months
Reduce watering in winter to prevent rot
Keep plant warm, dry, and well-lit indoors
Important Safety Note:
All parts of this plant contain a milky white latex sap that is toxic and a severe skin and eye irritant. Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling or pruning.
Botanical Name: Euphorbia tirucalli
Common Names: Fire Sticks, Pencil Tree, Pencil Cactus, Milk Bush, African Milk Bush
Euphorbia tirucalli, commonly known as Fire Sticks or Pencil Tree, is a bold, architectural succulent prized for its smooth, pencil-thin branches that shift from green to vibrant shades of orange and red in bright light and cooler temperatures. Native to eastern and southern Africa, this striking plant is naturally adapted to warm, dry climates and well-draining soils. It forms an upright, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree and can reach a mature size of approximately 6–10 feet (1.8–3 m) tall and 4–8 feet (1.2–2.4 m) wide, though it remains much smaller when grown in containers, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor display.
Care and Cultivation:
Bright, indirect sunlight (more sun enhances color)
Well-draining cactus or succulent soil
Water sparingly; allow soil to dry between waterings
Moderate to fast growth with minimal maintenance
Hardiness and Cold Sensitivity:
Not frost tolerant
USDA zones 10a–12b
Protect from temperatures below 38°F (3°C)
Winter Dormancy and Health:
Growth slows during cooler months
Reduce watering in winter to prevent rot
Keep plant warm, dry, and well-lit indoors
Important Safety Note:
All parts of this plant contain a milky white latex sap that is toxic and a severe skin and eye irritant. Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling or pruning.
